The NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is thrilled to announce two special guests for the 2024 edition: Taylor Henderson and Ethan Beckton. These talented artists will not only perform live at the final showcase, but also attend a workshop with performers prior to them taking the stage. The pair will also judge the finals and share their insights and tips with the aspiring performers. Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin said the NQ Fast Track Talent Showcase is the only talent showcase of
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Did you know that the Burdekin Community Association Inc. (BCA) has delivered the ‘Be Connected Program’ to Seniors over 50 for more than 14 years? Our Volunteer Tutors have provided hundreds of seniors with the essential digital skills to get online safely and with confidence. With so many aspects of life now online, from healthcare and government services to finding a job and staying in touch with loved ones and the technology we use changing very quickly, it’s super important that you get on
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The Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre is looking for community members who would like to help us make a positive impact in the Burdekin community. We need people with skills and experience to help us re-energise our Management Committee and achieve our goals. Don't worry if you don't know everything - we welcome people from all walks of life and value different perspectives, as this is what makes us more relevant to the wider community. We want to collaborate with community members on projects tha
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With the 2024 local government elections being held on 16 March 2024, I would like to share some news with you. I have decided not to run for councillor again next term. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve our community for the past eight years, but I feel it is time for me to step aside and let someone else take on this role. I know that some of you may be interested in running for councillor in the next election. If you are, I encourage you to come and have a chat with me. I would b
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Did you know you there are online resources and educational information on waste management? Explore the Council's website to discover the advantages of recycling, gain insights on proper waste sorting, understand the recyclable and non-recyclable items, and locate the nearest landfill. Download posters and flyers to promote recycling in your school or workplace or get the kids involved in good waste management practices these school holidays. There is some great information about what you can
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Before I take you to the Ballad of The Burdekin Stream, a little history will suffice. North Queensland was first settled in 1861 and the township of Bowen was formed. Settlers spread out over the country and crossing the Burdekin River was an obstacle. Settlers bought their horses, sheep and cattle with them and this caused erosion to the banks of the rivers and creeks (this erosion is mentioned in The Burdekin Stream). In early February 1864, the Burdekin River experienced a great flood and mo
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In the cane fields of the Burdekin, third generation sugarcane farmer Christian Lago has recently completed a Farm Emissions Report with Nutrien Ag Solutions, saying the insights have helped inform his priorities for future emission reduction activities. “The report used our on-farm production data and scientifically verified, governmental and industry approved models to quantify emissions occurring at each step along the production system,” Mr Lago said. “It showed that the majority of our emi
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Following inspections of farms in the Lower Herbert region, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) member Michael Penna and Senior Technical Officer Lawrence Di Bella viewed firsthand the impacts of the recent floods. Visiting members’ farms on December 27, 2023, Mr Penna and Mr Di Bella discovered many blocks to be waterlogged with floodwater still present in some blocks. On some farms, cane trash blankets had shifted due to the flooding occurring just after harvesting and, in some ca
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The Burdekin’s sugar mills have signed on sixteen new apprentices as 34 apprentices officially commence their trade training across the eight Wilmar Sugar and Renewables mills across Queensland. The new apprentices completed their two-week Safe Start program in January, before they began their work at their representative sugar mills. Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said the two-week Safe Start program prepared the new apprentices for what life would be like in Wilmar’s mills. “It’s ab
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Don West Toyota is pleased to announce the launch of KINTO Rent, to offer expanded mobility services to the Burdekin. KINTO provides customers with the flexibility to book and drive a Toyota vehicle from an hour to a year at attractive rates – all through the KINTO app. Since its launch in March 2021, Toyota vehicles booked through KINTO have been available at on-street locations in Melbourne as well as some Toyota Dealerships. Toyota intends that KINTO – a program of Toyota Finance Australia
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Delivering exceptional service with the utmost care and consideration is integral to Eyecare Plus Ayr. Having been a central service in the Burdekin for over 70 years, Eyecare Plus Ayr is synonymous with meticulous health care and a gentle approach. And now, with new ownership at the helm of the business as of 2018, Eyecare Plus Ayr continues to provide optometry services to the region. Shannon Davies is the current owner and Optometrist, who has lived locally for the past decade. Shannon has
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As the temperatures continue to rise and, it becomes more imperative than ever for industries and trade sectors to adapt to the seasonal changes to maintain optimal productivity and employee well-being. Implementing best summer practices is crucial for businesses and their staff to thrive in the warmer months. 1. Flexible Scheduling: Consider introducing flexible work hours or remote work options. This not only helps employees beat the summer heat but also promotes a healthier work-life bala
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For almost 43 years, Pierina Dalle Cort of Helloworld Travel Ayr has been the friendly face behind your adventures, and after all those years, her favorite travel advice is to venture with an open mind. With travelling being one of many popular New Year’s Resolutions within the Burdekin community, Pierina and her team have been busily preparing locals for their next holiday. “Planning for Christmas and the New Year for 2024/2025 is a hit already as families are wanting a cooler, relaxing envir
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Entries have opened ahead of the Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod celebrating its 40th year in 2024. The Burdekin Junior Eisteddfod is a friendly but competitive eisteddfod attracting high quality competitors from all over North Queensland. With its friendly atmosphere amongst competitors, teachers and parents, the eisteddfod has become a popular venue on the eisteddfod calendar over the last 40 years. Held every year, the eisteddfod aims to help young people of North Queensland, particularly local
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As everyone pronounces their new year’s resolutions, one that can be commonly heard is, “In 2024, I want to read more.” With that in mind, the team at Burdekin Library have shared their favourite reads of 2023 to help get you started. The Black Witch by Laurie Forest “Engaging fantasy. I couldn’t put it down!” – Carli A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas “I finally decided to read A Court of Thorns and Roses, and it’s made a place in my top 5 fantasy books. It’s got everything a fantasy
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Fast Facts: Rehoming Fee: $185 DOB: 1.07.2020 Sex: Female Breed: Domestic Short Hair Kid Friendly: Over 10 years old Dog Friendly: Slow Introduction Other Cats: Yes Indoors/Outdoors: Indoors Are you looking for a quiet companion that will shower you with affection? Then Snowy is the cat for you! This tri-coloured beauty with spectacular golden eyes is looking for her forever home. While she is slow to warm up entirely to new people, once she is comfortable, she makes her affection known. Snowy
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Tropical Townsville Townsville is a vibrant city boasting a rich history, beautiful beaches and a plethora of exciting activities to keep locals and tourists entertained. Whether you're interested in exploring the outdoors, delving into history and culture or simply enjoying the city's nightlife, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Townsville: Visit The Strand The Strand is a picturesque beachfront promenade that offers stunning views of Magnetic Island and
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Photos supplied: Dallan Garvey Photo supplied: John Chandler Photo supplied: Tommy Ingram Photo supplied: Jason Taylor Photo supplied: Matt Maguire
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There were only 12 players who fronted on a very hot Thursday afternoon for the first game of 2024. Two games of triples were contested. The first game John, Joe and Mick were just too strong defeating Keith, Des and Gary 21 to 9. In game two, the combination of Judy, Jim and Paul, who are normally all lead bowlers, combined very well to defeat Ray, Bob and Henry 21 to 11. See you all on Thursday – names in by 1:00pm for 1:30 start. Good bowling. Contributed by Stephen Doig
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Is your daughter looking for a fun activity to get out of the house and have some fun? Then Burdekin’s first girls only Wet’n’Wild Cricket program is perfect! Hosted by Queensland Cricket, this is a great opportunity for girls, aged five to 12 years old, to get a fun taste of cricket in a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere. Absolutely no experience required, just a fun loving attitude! The session also includes a barbeque and tonnes of fun! Be sure to bring along swimmers, a towel, and sunsc
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Representing Australia at the Sol2023 Pacific Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands, North Queensland javelin champion Nash Lowis clinched gold in the men’s javelin throw in November 2023. The grandson of Home Hill residents Bill and Trish Lowis, the 24-year-old emerged victorious with his final throw of 74.40 metres. Sitting on a distance of 64.28m after four rounds, Nash started to find his feet in the fifth round with a 69.45m effort to sit in third, before improving again on his last attempt to
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With the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament back on the calendar, thousands of tennis fans poured into Pat Rafter Arena with the hope of catching a match with Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray or Naomi Osaka. The early rounds did not disappoint with many of the matches going deep into the third set. Despite the rain, there were many sell out sessions. In addition to the international event, Tennis Queensland also ran sessions for clubs, coaches and government agencies. The 2023 Queensland Champion
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Shim Jang Taekwondo has been running strongly in the Burdekin for nearly 15 years, hitting a milestone last year with it being the fifth year operating a second centre in Home Hill. At the end of training each year, students and instructors celebrate the year that was and award the students who performed exceptionally throughout the year. “All our students put in an amazing effort last year and we look forward to growing our art in the Burdekin this year,” said Branch Instructor Cliff Mann.
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Emily Donges, Blake and Luke Ferguson and Sarah Mitchell-Ferguson Indi MacDonald, Kristy, Tyler, Mazlyn smith and Jodie, Addison and Emily MacDonald Johan, Josephine and Tyresse Murry Kirra Womeksley and Lauren Bozetto Noah, Cassie, April and Darren Tanner Stephanie and William O’Reilly with Santa Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza
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New Year celebrations ran all throughout Cape Upstart with midnight’s fiery red flairs, along with painful sunburns, competitive matches of beach cricket, a touch of fishing, and perfect summer weather. The sky put on a magnificent show for the final sunset of 2023, as beach-goes watched the last of the light disappear over the ocean. With only a drizzle of rain in the early hours of the first day of 2024, the Cape served as the perfect place to celebrate the year that was, and welcome in all
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